A generous accountancy firm is helping us count the pennies by backing our Christmas Toy Appeal.

Vatax Accounting Ltd is the latest firm to do its bit for disadvantaged children, donating £100 to the Dorset Echo Toy Appeal in its special 20th anniversary year.

The appeal aims to ensure every child, no matter what their situation, has a gift to open on Christmas morning.

Practice manager Heather Ray said: “Vatax is delighted to contribute to the Toy Appeal for the third year running. "The thought of a child going without a present at Christmas is unbearable and we hope the donation can put a smile on a little one’s face this festive season.

"It is also great to be able to contribute to the local community.

"Vatax has been established for over 40 years, and its approach is simple; it puts its client first.

"Whether you are a small business, landlord or individual Vatax will listen to you and cater for your needs providing practical accountancy solutions."

With branches in Dorchester and Dunstable, Vatax offers a stress-free approach to handling client’s affairs with a no-surprise fixed fee package to help them budget effectively.

The firm opened its new office at 18 Marsden Street, Poundbury, in 2017.

Vatax's generous donation will be used to buy gifts and toys for children who would otherwise go without.

Last year’s Toy Appeal saw readers and businesses raise a grand total of £3,428.99 and we need your help again to beat this target.

All it takes is a one-off donation of £100, which will make a big difference to children facing poverty.

Dorset Echo promotions manager Debbie Hellaby said: “Without the support of our readers and businesses we would not be able to help put smiles on all those families’ faces at Christmas, so a big ‘thank you’ in advance for your help.”

To find out more about the Dorset Echo Christmas Toy Appeal visit dorsetecho.co.uk/toyappeal

If your businesses would like to make a £100 donation, please email mjolliffe@newsquest.co.uk